The best baby carriers to keep your baby safe and comfortable

Winner of the Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier in the 2023 Mother&Baby Awards, this carrier offers ease and security for parent and baby, allowing you to keep your little one close while keeping your hands free.

Suitable for babies aged 0-3 years, the Nuna CUDL is designed to grow with your child, featuring an integrated infant booster for newborns that easily adjusts as your baby grows. Whether you prefer baby facing in for those intimate snuggles or facing out to explore the world, or even backpack mode for long walks outside, the CUDL has you covered. Parents also love the range of stylish colours it comes in, with something to suit everyone. 

We know comfort is key when it comes to baby carriers, and the CUDL ensures maximum comfort with its padded shoulder straps and waistband, which are made using breathable fabric for warmer months. The magnetic buckles make taking your little one in and out of their carrier a breeze, while the zip-open storage pocket on the waistband provides convenient storage for your essentials. Our mum tester Evie found taking her sleeping baby out very easy; “It’s very easy to put on and fit, and we love that you can easily undo the buckles quietly to transfer a sleeping baby out of the sling," she said. 

It also comes with a sun hood for brighter days and organic cotton bibs, making it a must-have for on-the-go families who just need everything in one. Our parent tester particularly loved this feature, "The bib attachment to the front of the CUDL is great for forward facing, especially as little ones like to suck on the front of the sling. We love how easy it is to then remove the bib and wash it without needing to wash the entire thing."

Gold - Best baby carrier at the Mother&Baby Awards 2023.

Read our full Nuna CUDL review

Designed with outdoor adventures in mind, the LittleLife Freedom S4 Child Carrier is a premium choice for active families looking for a baby carrier solution for long walks and hikes with your little one.

As you’ll know, things can get pretty sweaty on long walks with your baby, which is why it features an airflow back system to keep you and baby both cool and comfortable during those lengthy walks. It comes with plenty of storage space, allowing you to pack all the essentials for your journey, while features like foot stirrups, a viewing mirror, and the patented x-buckle harness system ensure safety and convenience on the go.

Made for children aged 6 months to 3 years, its fully adjustable design accommodates parents of all heights. The soft face pad, neck support, and anatomically shaped seating area provide maximum comfort for your child.

While some testers would have liked it to fold down to a more compact size, its freestanding design and easy wipeable material make it perfect for outdoor adventures, come rain or shine. 

The LittleLife Freedom S4 Child Carrier was awarded Gold for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

Read our full LittleLife Freedom S4 Chid Carrier review.

This durable baby carrier is ideal to accompany you on all your adventures, particularly if you’re heading on a walking holiday. Not only is it super lightweight at just 2.5kg, it also features lightweight airflow shoulder straps for breathability to help keep your upper body cool on warmer days. 

The added extras really made this carrier stand out, including the foot stirrups, viewing mirror, face cushion and sun shade for sunny days. Our mum tester loved these extra features as well as the added storage solutions. “We liked using the sun shade too, it is easy to add on to the seat and worked well. I put his nappies and wipes in the back pocket and his drink in the side pocket. It all fit well and had more room if needed,” one mum said.

Our parent testers loved the sturdiness of this carrier and found it very easy to strap their little ones in safely. It also comes with plenty of storage for all your walking essentials like nappies and wipes. 
Although some parents found it a little too large and bulky, active parents loved its practicality, smart design and added extras including the top grab handles, pivoting hip belt, and adjustable seating, offering comfort for both parent and child.

Silver – Best baby carrier at Mother&Baby Awards 2023

Read our full Cross Country S4 Child Carrier review

This soft and cosy cotton wrap is designed to provide your newborn with the comforting sensation of being in the womb. Offering four different carrying positions to accommodate your baby, the Dreamgenii® SnuggleRoo Baby Carrier is designed to be suitable from birth to 12 months.
Made from 100% cotton, the SnuggleRoo is gentle on both your baby's delicate skin and yours, leaving no red marks behind. Its simple design promotes that all-important bonding experience between parent and child while allowing for hands-free parenting, ideal for busy mums and dads on the go.

During testing, parents found the carrier comfortable and convenient, especially during the newborn stage. “I loved how high and close it held baby to me, so he felt reassured at all times too,” commented our mum tester Rosemary. Although some parents found the instructions a bit tricky to follow initially, with mum Natalie saying, “they weren’t very clear on how to wear it,” parents eventually praised the carrier's soft material and absence of complicated buckles or mechanisms.

The SnuggleRoo's lightweight and compact design make it easy to store away and carry, fitting neatly into your baby bag or stroller without being bulky. Our mum tester Georgia said, “it is lightweight, so can easily be folded up into your change back, popped underneath the pushchair or packed in a suitcase, without taking up too much space.” Parents also appreciated its versatility and comfort, making it a go-to choice for outings and busy schedules.

Our testers also found it very easy to adjust as baby grows, with mum tester Sooha commenting, “It’s easy to adjust which saves valuable time.” They also agreed that the fact it was machine washable was brilliant after an accident, making it very easy to keep clean.

Award: Bronze – best baby carrier at Mother&Baby Awards 2023.

Read our full Dreamgenii Snuggleroo Baby Carrier review

Designed to provide optimal support and comfort for both you and your little one, the Joie Savvy has four different carrying positions, including front and back, this carrier allows you to keep your baby close and secure while you get on with life.

Certified hip-healthy by the Hip Dysplasia Institute, the Savvy ensures your baby sits in a comfortable M-shaped position, promoting healthy spine and hip development. Our mum tester Kirsty particularly loved how easy it was to use; “The carrier is easy to put on and the magnets make it easy to get baby in and out by myself. This feature also means I can take my baby out just to feed her or change her nappy and then pop her back in without needing to take off the whole carrier and readjust it all over again,” she said.

The carrier also comes with bibs and harness pads, and our parent testers appreciated that the carrier was also machine-washable, making cleaning a breeze, with mum tester Kirsty saying, “I love that the Savvy is machine washable too so I don't have to worry if it does get dirty.” 

Although there were a few aspects of the carrier our parent testers would like improved, including the strength of the buckles, and they would have loved to be able to breastfeed when baby is in this, they loved its comfort and design overall, with the standout feature being how easy this was to put on and take off. Mum Sarah found it very easy to use even with another little one in tow; “The auto click buckle is absolutely amazing and can even be done one-handed, which is an absolute godsend, especially when juggling more than one child. It can be put on really quickly, so it minimises any time for tears or tantrums from all parties!”

Shortlisted in the 2022 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling.

Read our full Joie Savvy review

With its breathable 3D Air Mesh lining, this carrier ensures there’s plenty of airflow around you and baby, making it ideal for hotter weather. Our mum tester agreed that it kept her and baby cool. “Gone are the days when baby overheated in the carrier and started to complain,” she said. Other mums found it ideal to take on holiday to hotter countries. 

The Ergobaby 360 offers four different carrying positions: front-facing inwards or outwards, hip, and back. Its structured bucket seat, padded shoulder straps and extra cushioning around baby's legs provide high levels of comfort and support for both mum and baby. Our mum tester Beata particularly loved how well this carrier distributed her baby’s weight. “I tried a number of different carriers with my daughter since she was born and Ergobaby 360 is the only one that distributed her weight evenly, allowing my baby to get properly up close.” She said. 

This carrier also comes a sun protection UV hood for sunny walks and there’s also the option of using this with the optional newborn insert that’s sold separately in case you’re wanting to use it with smaller babies. Parents also loved how easy this carrier was to fold and store away when not in use, finding that it fit easily in their buggy storage basket. 

The main downside to this carrier according to our parent testers was some issues with the buckles and how tricky they were to fasten. Mum Beata said, “There are only two things I would change, one being the back buckle which is quite challenging to do up and un-do. The second would be some sort of side fastening that would make it easier to get baby in and out of the carrier.” Other parents said they’d have also liked a bit more storage on the carrier too.  

Read our full Ergobaby Baby 360 Cool Air Carrier review

If you’re looking for a more premium quality carrier designed for parents who struggle with back pain, then you may want to consider the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Harmony. This carrier features a wide seat area, adjustable head support, and a blend of cool, breathable mesh and soft jersey materials for optimal comfort.

Our real parent testers loved how easy it was to use, with mum tester Philippa saying, “I’ve used a range of carriers before and really struggled to get them on and baby in by myself! This one is so much easier, I can adjust all of the straps effortlessly.” They also loved how easy this was to adjust from parent to parent, with mum Daisy saying, “it is easier to fit (especially when swapping between me and my husband) than any other carrier we tried.”

With adjustable straps and multiple carrying positions, the Harmony is great for your growing baby as it’s suitable for babies aged 0-3 years, without the need for a newborn insert for smaller babies. Parents also found their baby’s weight was evenly distributed and the padded back support and shoulder straps provided some extra comfort.

While some testers suggested additional colour options or integrated pockets for storage, parents loved how easy it was to use as well as the long-term value this carrier offers. They also loved how easily this folded away when not in use.

Gold winner for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling or Back Carrier at the M&B Awards 2022.

Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Harmony review

Made with a blend of soft, breathable fabric, including sustainable eucalyptus tree pulp, the FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap ensures your baby stays safe and comfortable throughout the day in a soft and cosy cocoon. In addition to being soft, our parent testers also loved the stylish design, how lightweight and portable it is, and how it kept both them and the baby cool. 

We know using a wrap can feel a little intimidating the first time you use one, but parent testers found the FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap easy to use thanks to its clear instructions and online tutorials, allowing parents to master the wrap's technique. Our mum tester, Samantha, loved the added instructions, saying, “There are instructions and a video online to help you learn how to fit the wrap correctly. Once you have mastered how to use it, it can be fitted quickly, and it allows you to be hands-free while still giving baby cuddles and comfort.”

Designed to fit all sizes, it can carry babies from 8 lbs up to 35 lbs; parents love its sustainable nature as well as its premium design. Our mum tester, Emily, loved this wrap, saying, “This wrap is without a doubt the best on the market. I have used others & found them too hot, but the fabric of this wrap is really breathable, and this is what makes it stand out for me. I also like the fact that in the future FreeRider will be making wraps to support various charities and will donate a percentage of the profits.”

Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards and won Gold in 2020 for Best Baby Carrier/Sling category.

Read our full FreeRider Baby Carrier Wrap review

The Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier is designed to make carrying your baby a simple and stress-free experience. With multiple carrying positions, including forward-facing, backwards-facing, side-facing, and backpack style, this carrier is suitable for newborns to toddlers up to 20kg, giving you a personalised fit with crossable straps and lumbar support for added comfort.

It's lightweight, easy to use, and machine washable, making it ideal for busy parents. Parents loved that there was no need for newborn inserts, and they loved extra features, including the fold-out hood for sun protection on hot days and the cushioned neck support to ensure maximum comfort for your little one. Our mum tester Amy was a big fan of the design,  “The design is brilliant, comfortable for various aged children, and it was simple to get the hang of its varying functionality. It is lightweight and easily packs away when not in use,” she said.

This carrier is a real game-changer for active mums and dads when it comes to walking the dogs or travelling overseas. It’s designed to help relieve the strain on your back and hips while supporting your child’s hip-healthy “M” position as they grows. Mum tester Sarah loved these added safety features, commenting, “Compared with other carriers I have used in the past, I found it comfortable and secure to wear, and it supports baby in a hip-healthy “M” shape position, which is important. The fact that you only need one carrier, without the need for inserts, means it will last from newborn to toddler making it good value for money.”

Winner in the M&B Awards 2019 winning Bronze in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling category.

Read our full Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier review

Ideal for mums and dads on the move, the BabyBjorn Carrier Mini offers a more compact solution compared to bulkier baby carriers on the market. Made with soft and breathable fabric, this carrier is designed to make both day and night use effortless, particularly for travelling. Our mum tester, Charlotte, agreed with how easy it is to transport – “The carrier is very transportable, it isn't too bulky, and it is very easy to use when taking your baby out and about.” Its detachable front section allows for easy access when your little one is sleeping, adding to the convenience for both parent and baby.

Our real parent testers also found the BabyBjorn Carrier Mini very easy to adjust and loved that the head support was also fully adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit for your growing baby. Our mum tester Emma found it very easy to use, commenting, “The simplicity of use is a massive bonus as there’s no complicated straps or buttons to deal with, and the baby can be placed and secured in the carrier quickly and easily.” The carrier's ability to distribute weight evenly means you can carry your baby comfortably for longer periods and the fact it’s machine washable only adds to its convenience.

It also comes with very clear instructions, making it a breeze to use, even for first-time parents, giving you the peace of mind that the baby is secure and safe in their carrier. Our mum tester, Eliana, liked how safe it felt, commenting, “It comes with clear instructions, and you can also download this on the internet. It is reassuring that you have to hear the click noise to know you have locked the carrier securely.” As well as providing a safe spot for your little one, its smaller size makes it nice and portable for when you need to take it with you, and the soft fabric and supportive design ensure both parent and baby stay comfortable, whether you're on the move or enjoying quiet moments at home.

This won a 2020 Silver Best Baby Carrier/Sling in the Mother&Baby Awards.

Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Mini review

The Beco Gemini Baby Carrier is very lightweight and versatile, offering four different carrying positions, including hip and back, making it easy to adjust to your baby's needs as they grow. Suitable from birth up to 35 pounds without the need for inserts, it offers a snug and secure place to your tot to rest from the very beginning.

Designed with practicality in mind, the front of the carrier folds down to allow your baby to see out in front of you, providing excellent opportunities for interaction and sensory stimulation. For nap times, you can easily move baby back into place with the added head support, giving you the peace of mind. Optional drool pads are also available for teething babies, a feature our parent testers loved. The main standout feature was how comfortable this carrier was. One mum tester had a previously bad experience with neck and back pain when using a carrier but was pleasantly surprised by this one. “I just took my two-and-a-half-week-old daughter, who now weighs 7.5 lbs, for a 55-minute walk, and I can honestly tell you that, when I got home, I felt not even a tiny twinge of pain or discomfort in my neck and shoulders. In fact, as I was arriving home, I couldn't believe that, after 55 minutes, it was almost as if there was no weight bearing upon my shoulder area at all,” she said. 

Although parents loved the carrier, there were some downsides identified by our parent testers with some finding the instructions a bit challenging to follow and others found the security button on the clips could be simpler to operate. They did however love the ergonomic seat, adjustable headrest, and the exceptional value for money in terms of its longevity, accommodating your little one from newborn to toddlerhood.

It’s also designed to keep parent and baby cool on the move, thanks to the moisture-wicking microfiber fabric and breathable 3D mesh panel which ensures good airflow. With crossable straps, a padded waist belt, and a practical pocket for essentials, this carrier offers practicality, making hands-free parenting a breeze. You can even find a good breastfeeding position with this carrier, as one mum tester said, “I find the Beco a lot easier to use and put on by myself and adjust the straps and so handy being able to breastfeed her in it.”

The Beco 8 was reviewed by our mum testers and won the 2020 M&B Bronze Award for Best Baby Carrier/ Sling, but the Beco Gemini carrier seems to be as good, if not better.

Read our full Beco Gemini Baby Carrier review

If you’re keen to use a baby carrier from day one, then you’ll want to know more about the Ergobaby Embrace Newborn Baby Carrier, a hybrid of a sling combined with a carrier, giving you the best of both worlds. 

Made from cuddly jersey fabric, this carrier keeps your baby close to your heart in a natural position, offering plenty of support for parents with a waist belt and spreadable shoulder straps. It also features easy buckling fastenings without the hassle of excessive wrapping or fabric, ensuring a snug and secure fit every time. Our mum tester, Charlotte, found this carrier very hassle-free  – “The carrier was extremely quick to fasten and get on once you had adjusted the waistband. The straps are very conveniently located, so there is no awkward stretching needed to get everything fastened and tightened. The fabric is wonderfully soft and flexible surrounding the baby, and on the straps, there were also no sections where the webbing straps were causing friction or discomfort,” she said. 

Our real parent testers found it was a lifesaver when it came to soothing and comforting babies as well as the safety features to give us peace of mind, including the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified Fabric and acknowledgement from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as hip-healthy. Our mum tester Helen found her baby instantly relaxed in this carrier, commenting, “When I put the Ergo Embrace on my baby, she will feel so comfortable that she will fall asleep far quicker than other carriers.”

While some parents express preferences for other carriers like the Ergobaby Omni 360, many parents choose the Ergobaby Embrace Newborn Baby Carrier thanks to its affordability. Our parent testers would have also loved the addition of a hood for weather protection and some additional head support as babies grow.

Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling.

Read our full Ergobaby Embrace Baby Carrier review

Designed with active parents in mind, the BabyBjorn Move Baby Carrier has built-in back support and a waist belt for even weight distribution, ensuring both parent and baby can enjoy outings comfortably. 

The thin and flexible 3D mesh fabric supports newborns while adjusting easily as your baby grows, offering a snug and secure fit. The soft fabric hugs the baby's back, legs, and hips, enhancing comfort and support. Our mum tester Shereen loved this, saying, “It is a sturdy carrier and also very cushiony to the touch. My little one enjoys being in this most of the time. As well as being easy to clip together, it is reasonably easy to take off.”

Its lightweight design and secure fit make it ideal for solo use, even for breastfeeding mums who need easy access. Our mum tester Lesley particularly loved the independence this carrier gave them, saying, “It also allows me to take the dog for a walk minus the pram on days where my husband is working. I also think it will be easier for carrying baby when I want to go the shops quickly without needing to bring out the pram and assemble it.”

While some suggest improvements such as adding cushioning for baby's comfort or a storage bag for keeping it safe when travelling, our parent testers loved how durable this carrier was, despite its price, many parents consider it a worthwhile investment.

Won a Silver Award in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling.

Read our full BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Move review

Offering both complete carrying freedom and close bonding with your baby, the Izmi Wrap is made from luxuriously soft two-way stretch bamboo material, providing a snug and supportive position for your baby, which is recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. With two carrying positions - front carry and hip carry - and the added option for breastfeeding support, this wrap offers some extra comfort for babies and easier breastfeeding for mums, just like our mum tester Sam who said, “I've even been able to breastfeed whilst walking the dog and no one noticed! An absolute must-have for any mum. I love babywearing for the bond it gives me with my baby.”

Some parents would have liked some improvements, such as increasing the weight limit for older babies, as our mum tester Carys found, commenting, “I did not use it for breastfeeding as my baby was a bit too big to get the positioning right, but I could see it would be a big benefit to use for younger and smaller babies. However, there is a limited timeframe on how long the wrap can be used for, which might not make it suitable for all if budgets were tight.” They would have also liked a more simplified wrapping process, as Carys also found, “Without having the videos to hand, putting the wrap on is a bit difficult, so if this could be simplified, then I think that would be a big benefit.” 

Overall, our parent testers loved its durability and versatility, making it a preferred choice over structured carriers for the close bond it fosters between parent and baby, as well as the breastfeeding benefits.

Won a Bronze Award in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling.

Read our full Izmi Baby Wrap review

Shortlisted in the 2021 M&B Awards in the Best Baby Carrier/Sling

If you want all the bonding benefits of a baby wrap or sling without the hassle of having to worry about how to tie it all, then you might want to consider the Close Parent Caboo Lite Carrier. You simply pop it on like a t-shirt and adjust it with the clever rings, allowing you to experience all the benefits of a stretchy wrap without the complexity.

Our parent testers loved it for its lightweight design, breathability, and ease of use. It also provided a snug and secure fit for both parent and baby. Our mum tester Lucia loved how close it made her feel to her newborn, Erica.” I love using this product; Erica is so close to me; I have ridiculously high levels of oxytocin, and my baby is happy, feels safe, and all cuddled up.” Lucia said. Its soft, wide straps also provide added comfort for extended wear. 

Parents also loved its compact design and included storage bag, which makes it perfect for on-the-go parents. It fits easily into a baby change bag or stroller. Its suitability for newborns up to 14kg ensures long-lasting usability, adding to its value for money.

Some of our parent testers would have liked clearer instructions or additional positioning options for older babies. Our mum tester, Miriam, commented, “The one thing I would change about the Close Parent Caboo Lite Carrier product would be the instruction booklet. I found the pictures quite tricky to follow and resorted to a youtube video instead. Perhaps a link to a YouTube video on the manual would be good for ease of use - everything is digital these days, and videos are so much easier than reading a manual!” Overall however, the Caboo Lite helped parents feel close to their baby while getting on with daily tasks.

Read our full Close Caboo Lite Baby Carrier review

Designed by the Swedish brand Najell, this baby carrier is a modern twist on a classic baby carrier, both feeling and looking the part. The Original Volume 2 will see you from newborn to 3 years with just one carrier making it much better value for money compared to other carriers with less longevity.

Our mum testers also love how environmentally friendly this carrier also is as it’s made from recycled fabrics. The magnetic clips ensure quick and easy usage, while the extra pouch adds convenience for carrying essentials. Our mum tester, Ria, agreed with how easy it is to use, commenting, “The magnetic clip system is so quick and secure that it means I can put our little one in without assistance. It takes a matter of seconds to strap in our little one and we’ve actually ditched the pram for small dog walks and use the Najell baby carrier as it’s so easy to put her in.” It’s easy adjustability also make it ideal for both parents to use.

As well as feeling soft and having a trendy design, the padded waistband and shoulder straps provide an added layer of comfort particularly for postpartum recovery when you need it most. Our mum tester Ria said, “The carrier has a padded waistband and shoulder straps that make it very comfy to wear (even with a post-partum belly and c-section scar), and I imagine this will be particularly helpful as she gets bigger and we are carrying that little bit more weight.” 

The carrier is also machine-washable, adding further to its convenience, allowing for easy cleaning after any spills. “A big bonus is that it's machine washable meaning that I don’t have to worry about any milk dribble or reflux that might get on the carrier.” Ria said.

**Read our full Najell Original Volume 2 baby carrier review
**

Made from 100% certified organic cotton, this Gaia Stretchy Baby Carrier Wrap offers comfort and sustainability in one package providing excellent breathability and eco-friendliness. With its super soft and breathable fabric, this wrap is suitable for newborns up to 3 years old or 15kg, offering great value for money for parents.

Certified to standards by the Hip Dysplasia Institute and endorsed for ergonomic design, it ensures even weight distribution for optimal baby development. Featuring three different carry positions, the Gaia Baby Stretchy Wrap comes with step-by-step video instructions, making it easy for parents to use right from bringing their newborn home. 

Made from superior quality cotton with one-way stretch, it offers lasting comfort and support. Inspired by nature, the soft tones of the wraps are both soothing and stylish. One mum tester loved the fabric, commenting, “It is super soft, and even in the warmer weather we have been having, I have been using it daily. The fabric is breathable and washes lovely.” Its neutral and size-inclusive design ensures it's suitable for all caregivers and any outfit. It’s also machine washable, making it very easy to maintain.

Additionally, the wrap is naturally anti-bacterial, biodegradable, and free from chemical dyes, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for both baby and parent. With packaging made from certified sources and a commitment to using recycled materials where possible, Gaia Baby is a brilliant choice when it comes to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

If you want a baby carrier that can easily adjust between each parent or caregiver, then you might want to consider the Bebear carrier, as it’s very easy to adjust. With the option of six different carrying positions, it's suitable for newborns to 36 months, ensuring long-term usability. One mum tester said it made her life much easier, saying, “This has been a game changer for me. It means I can do my housework, etc., without her being unsettled. Having the little seat is great don’t get sore back from using it."

Included in the box are three dribble bibs, a head hood, and a waist extender for every body shape, a zipper pocket on the belt for easy storage when you’re on the go. One petite mum tester particularly liked how she could adapt the fit to her body, something she’s struggled with in the past. “I was so surprised by the quality of this product as I was fully expecting to be disappointed (yet again) since I’ve had a lot of trouble with other carriers since I am a petite build/frame.”

Parents particularly loved the detachable seat that can be used separately as a hip carrier or in conjunction with the carrier promoting healthy hip development and ensuring baby's comfort. It’s also a very practical carrier with a foam wedge pad that can be easily removed for washing, making maintenance a breeze.